American Craftsman knows you may have questions when replacing your windows and doors. Below we've compiled a quick list of the most common ones we are asked. If you don't find the information you are looking for below, please click here to send us any questions or comments.
Energy Savings: Vinyl is a great insulator, making it a great choice for windows and patio doors.
Convenience: Vinyl is extremely durable and provides a finish that is virtually maintenance-free.
Durability: American Craftsman vinyl windows and patio doors are backed by our lifetime warranty, which exceeds the warranties offered by most wood and aluminum window manufacturers. Our products are tested and certified for structural and thermal performance to insure a lifetime of performance.
Appearance: A broad selection of window styles and sizes virtually assures that you'll find a window to enhance the look of your home. Vinyl windows don't rot, corrode, flake or peel therefore never need to be painted. Their appearance is easily maintained with periodic cleaning.
The combination of aesthetic appeal, energy efficiency, low maintenance and durability provides equal or better performance than almost all other materials and is often more economical.
Why should I replace my existing windows?
American Craftsman Windows offers many styles to give your home a beautiful new look while improving energy efficiency. American Craftsman Windows can change the appearance of your home and add value to your home while cutting down your heating and cooling bills. Vinyl windows never need painting and are easy to clean, so you'll spend less time worrying about your windows and more time enjoying yourself.
What are R-values and U-values?
The R-value is the resistance a material has to the flow of heat (the higher the R-value, the greater the insulating value). R-value is the opposite, or reciprocal of U-value.
The U-value is the amount of heat that is transferred through a material - the lower the U-value, the better insulating quality. U-value is the opposite, or reciprocal of R-value.
Two organizations, the American Architectural Manufacturing Association (AAMA) and the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), test the performance and quality standards for windows.
The NFRC established standards for thermal performance.
U-factor: This is a measure of heat loss. The lower the U-factor the better.
SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient): Measures the amount of heat gained through a window. Once again the lower the better.
VT (Visible Transmittance): The higher the visible transmittance, the more daylight is transmitted. A high VT is desirable to maximize the amount of daylight entering the home.
The AAMA established standards for structural integrity, air infiltration, water infiltration resistance and forced entry resistance.
Structural Integrity is the ability to withstand wind and other dynamic pressures. This is rated in design pressure (DP). The higher a product's design pressure rating, the greater the amount of wind or pressure the window will withstand.
Air Infiltration tests measure a window's ability to resist air from passing through the frame and sash of a window at the equivalent of 25-mph wind. The lower the air infiltration rating the better.
Water Infiltration tests a window's ability to resist water leakage through the window frame, sashes, joints, weather-stripping, etc. No leakage is permitted under these test criteria.
A Forced Entry test is performed by a certified lab technician using many different tools in an attempt to try and break into a home through the window. Next, windows and doors are subjected to hundreds of pounds of force to try to lift or push them open while in the locked position.
American Craftsman Window and Door Co. voluntarily tests its products in our own state-of-the-art test facility to insure quality and performance. We also submit our products to an independent testing laboratory for testing and certification to the nationally recognized standards listed above.
What is ENERGY STAR and how does a window company qualify for ENERGY STAR compliance?
ENERGY STAR was started by The United States Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency. ENERGY STAR helps businesses and consumers become aware of what products save energy to save money while protecting the environment for future generations. When a product, such as an American Craftsman window, fits the requirements for ENERGY STAR that product then qualifies for the program.
Are American Craftsman Windows available in varying sizes?
American Craftsman has windows in many sizes and shapes to choose from. Popular window sizes are typically stocked at the local Home Depot store. Special orders are also available at your local Home Depot store.
Insulated glass consists of two pieces of glass sealed to a spacer. This creates an insulated air space between the two pieces of glass, resulting in better thermal performance. Insulated glass also reduces condensation while keeping the heat in during the winter and the heat out during the summer.
What is condensation and what causes it?
Condensation is the result of excess humidity, or excess water vapor in the air coming into contact with a cooler surface such as a window causing visible droplets of water. American Craftsman's windows are built with features to keep the surface of the glass warmer to avoid condensation. When humidity conditions are extremely high, use the following suggestions to help reduce the moisture in the air:
Open windows frequently to "air-out" your home.
Use a dehumidifier.
Use venting fans in the kitchen, bathroom and laundry room.
LoE² (low emissivity) glass provides year round comfort and energy savings. Two thin, transparent metallic coatings applied to the glass selectively filter solar radiation. During the summer, LoE² reduces heat gain, keeping your home cooler. LoE² glass helps keep you warmer in the winter by reflecting heat back into your home.
What kind of maintenance do my new American Craftsman Windows require?
American Craftsman vinyl windows are virtually maintenance free. They are unaffected by moisture, salt air, pollution and airborne chemicals. Vinyl will not pit, peel, flake or corrode making it unnecessary to paint. Cleaning them is easy using a simple cloth and mild detergent. Do not use harsh detergents or solvents as these could damage the finish or appearance of the windows.
How can I find out more about American Craftsman Windows and Doors?
American Craftsman is happy to provide our product literature in PDF format, available for download at this link. If you have additional questions about our line of quality windows and doors, you can Contact Us by email or call us at 888-504-0005 and ask for "Mr. Window". We are eager to help you.
